Atelier Durdan N°7 razor pass around.....

To clarify something. The order is mainly being returned due to how he handled the non working box. Mine doesn’t close and the hinge is crooked. Also for 150 I should get a hardwood box. This thing is light duty. And has veneer too and bottom.

The finish was only an observation. The machine line are not parallel to the head so it looks really weird. The sides all have swirl marks too which the photo doesn’t highlight.

All things considered I felt the order had to go back considering a purchase price of 1.5K. USD.i may have had a different viewpoint at a lower price level. I’m done hijacking this thread. I’m returning it at my expense to be done with it and learn my lesson

Bummer!
At that price, things need to be PERFECT – no ifs, buts, hemms and haws.
Imagine charging 120 Euro for basic polish and machining marks. LOL, no way!

Always interesting to see that the minute someone posts a well articulated complaint, the first responses
are to defend the artisan. He always responds to my emails in 2 hours. He will make it right. He must be busy.
What finish did you order? Blah blah blah.

These are guys who make razors that they sell at very high prices... not dudes who reside on Mt Olympus... like Zeus
and his gang.

We need to hold their feet to the fire whenever necessary.

Tester28 I think it's very important for transparency to know what finish cornbread ordered. I know only basic finish in SS and Ti from Atelier Durdan, and my La Faulx as machined is very good if not best what I have ever seen for this finish. both in SS and Ti.

Now looks like the main issue is box, where expectations about box for 150 are different as box offered. I personally would never buy any box for 150, I prefer stand but it's expensive lession learned.

And to add, there were Wolfman WR4 head issue on other forum, and Wolfam razor did same, customer had to ship it back (buyers cost) and if issue confirmed he will return payment for order. I think that is just usual procedure.. Wooden box could be better described on web page, that is true. But I personally don't see any reason to "hold their feet to the fire" in this case.. just my 2 cents

Hello everyone,

I want to address a recent situation with one of our customers, Cornbread, regarding the return of their Number 7 razor. At Atelier DURDAN, we are committed to providing the highest quality products and ensuring complete customer satisfaction.

Return Issue:
Cornbread raised concerns about the quality of the finish on the top cover and the wooden box. We proposed two solutions to address the problem, but unfortunately, these did not satisfy Cornbread, who requested a return and refund. I accepted their return request, but the return shipping costs will be their responsibility.

New Returns Policy:
This situation and the reactions it provoked have given me a better understanding of the issues involved in returning products. To better meet your expectations, we will be introducing a free returns policy under certain conditions, including:

- Technical defect (in shaver assembly)
- Visual defect (pre-shipment photos will be produced for each order for comparison)

If no defect is found, no return or refund will be granted. A new control post will be created internally to improve quality, filter out potential defects, and confirm any issues before shipment. In cases of uncertainty, my decision will always favor the customer.

Clarification on Finishes:
We offer test rides and regularly post photos on Instagram to help you choose the finish that suits you best. If you have any doubts about which finish to choose, please contact me, and I'll be happy to send you product photos. This way, we hope to avoid any disappointment linked to unmet expectations. Please note that an error in your choice will not justify a valid return, so take the time to be sure of your choice before placing your order.

Conclusion:
I want to reassure all our customers that I take returns very seriously and am committed to offering products and services of the highest quality. Your satisfaction is my priority, and I appreciate your understanding and continued support. As a result of this decision, Cornbread's return will be processed as the box is defective.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me directly for faster answers.

Best regards,

Augustin  
Atelier DURDAN

Atelier DURDAN very classy and thanks for making it right.

To clarify something. The order is mainly being returned due to how he handled the non working box. Mine doesn’t close and the hinge is crooked. Also for 150 I should get a hardwood box.  This thing is light duty. And has veneer too and bottom.

The finish was only an observation.  The machine line are not parallel to the head so it looks really weird. The sides all have swirl marks too which the photo doesn’t highlight.

All things considered I felt the order had to go back considering a purchase price of 1.5K. USD.i may have had a different viewpoint at a lower price level.  I’m done hijacking this thread. I’m returning it at my expense to be done with it and learn my lesson

Bummer!
At that price, things need to be PERFECT – no ifs, buts, hemms and haws.
Imagine charging 120 Euro for basic polish and machining marks. LOL, no way!

Always interesting to see that the minute someone posts a well articulated complaint, the first responses
are to defend the artisan. He always responds to my emails in 2 hours. He will make it right. He must be busy.
What finish did you order? Blah blah blah.

These are guys who make razors that they sell at very high prices... not dudes who reside on Mt Olympus... like Zeus
and his gang.

We need to hold their feet to the fire whenever necessary.

Not so fast there. Agreed, that the customer must be priority one in every business entity that wants to meet customer satisfaction to it's best ability. In this particular instance there were factors that the customer considered to be not to his expectations. One being the overall finish of a top cap and perhaps other components within the kit and it was quite obvious that two was a defective storage box. Arguably, the upgrade in price for this particular box is in question and rightfully so as I've seen better quality solid wood boxes at flea markets for less than half the price. However, a customer does not go in blind in any particular purchase as information in most cases is readily available on nearly all these artisan websites explaining the fine print in general standards of what is to be delivered & expected. Due diligence is the key word in any online purchase. I'm not saying that cornbread overlooked the vendor policies concerning the buyer's & sellers basic requirements in understanding what is being purchased. In this instance, I side with cornbread in that it did not meet his expectations or requirement for the price that was asked.

Most times we get a little ahead of ourselves. We shouldn't be so quick to assume nor to make judgement without having all the facts in hand.

I quote:

If we are honest with ourselves, we have to admit that sometimes our assumptions and preconceived notions are wrong, and therefore, our interpretation of events is incorrect. This causes us to overreact, to take things personally, or to judge people unfairly.

Elizabeth Thornton

Atelier DURDAN very classy and thanks for making it right.

Excellent! Glad he took care of business with you to your satisfaction my friend.

First before I get into a review, I want to commend Augustin for recognizing that there was an issue in his return policy and rectifying it.  It is this type of action that will not only change a prospective customers view but also solidify a company's reputation.  Well done Augustin. 
BTW, he also has answered my emails.

FIRST SHAVE WITH THE NO. 7

Today I decided to go with the 1.1 plate.  I used the following items to keep my focus on the razor and not the supporting items.  I used the SV 70th soap, Razor Emporium pre soap, Accuforge blade (1) and Omega Mistura brush, HC&C bowl.
The first thing that I noticed is that there was that the weight of the razor was back toward the handle.  At first I was concerned, but as soon as I started shaving, I noticed that there was significant blade feel.  By having the weight back in the handle, it allowed for less pressure on the head resulting a light touch and no worry about the blade feel.  That is not to say, ignore the feel, you just don't have to worry about it as much.  In addition to the blade feel, there was also significant audio feedback.  I like that, YMMV, because it lets me know if the razor is actually cutting the hair.

The first pass was WTG.  The razor performed very well.  I had 2 days of growth and although I don't have quick growing stubble, I do have old man coarse stubble.  The No. 7 just plowed through it with no tugging.  The only issue I had initially was finding the right angle.  I started with a shallow angle and although it worked well, it was not comfortable or smooth.  I then changed to a steeper angle and the shave changed considerably.  The protruding safety bar on the plate did pull the skin away and allowed me to shave comfortably and closely without irritation or blood.  

The second pass was XTG.  Again the steeper angle provided an excellent pass and the audible sound let me know that I was getting a close shave.  Again no nicks, cuts or irritation.  You can't ask for more.

The third pass was ATG.  This pass always scares me, no matter what I use.  The areas of concern are just below the chin and just above the jaw.  On this pass I found that a shallower angle seemed to do the trick.  Now when I say shallower, I mean just a bit less steep.  You still need that safety bar.  There was minimal buffing, but, for me, there always is.

CONCLUSION:
The shave was excellent.  No nicks, cuts or irritation, either during or after the shave.  When I was done, I was sure that I would have significant alum burn.  In fact, I had very little if any burn.  So I had a very close and comfortable shave using the 1.1 plate.  Now for razor comparisons.  Keep in mind I am not a hobbyist, although my wife thinks I am.  I have the Rex Konsul, Lambda Ares and Athena and the La Faulx classic and ++.  I just obtained the Timeless aluminum slant, but I won't count that as one of my premier razors.  It is being used as a travel razor only and is not in the rotation.  So, how does the No. 7 1.1 plate compare to what I have and use on a regular basis?  I find it more comfortable and efficient than the Konsul, even with all the settings.  It is comparable to the La Faulx ++ in comfort and efficiency.  The 7 is more efficient than the La Faulx Classic and a bit less comfortable.  I found the 1.1 plate to be nearly as efficient and and smooth as the Athena, but it was less efficient than the Ares.  The No. 7 with the 1.1 plate is an excellent razor and would be a great addition to anyone wanting a top tier razor.  I will be interested in seeing how long the shave lasts.

Now it is decision time.  Do I try the 1.5 or drop down to the .7????  I shave every other day, normally.  My next shave will be Thursday.

Tester28 I think it's very important for transparency to know what finish cornbread ordered. I know only basic finish in SS and Ti from Atelier Durdan, and my La Faulx as machined is very good if not best what I have ever seen for this finish. both in SS and Ti.

Now looks like the main issue is box, where expectations about box for 150 are different as box offered. I personally would never buy any box for 150, I prefer stand but it's expensive lession learned.

And to add, there were Wolfman WR4 head issue on other forum, and Wolfam razor did same, customer had to ship it back (buyers cost) and if issue confirmed he will return payment for order. I think that is just usual procedure.. Wooden box could be better described on web page, that is true. But I personally don't see any reason to "hold their feet to the fire" in this case.. just my 2 cents

Does Cornbread need to be put through the wringer for his complaint? He's been here a very long time
and even though I rarely engage in convo with him, I take his word.
What does it matter what finish he ordered....I saw the pics he submitted....the top cap finish and the wooden case.
I agree with his assessment (you may not and it's fine). Plus he handled himself with restraint...I would have lost it!
The pictures of the basic SS head shown on the website are pretty good and customers expect something better
than that if they upgrade....I could see that this was not the case. Why does a customer need to be given the third
degree: did you read the fine print etc etc?

The merchant has taken corrective action and he's smart for doing so. None of this would be possible unless CB had brought
up issues via his complaint...it made things better.

One of the foundational pillars of this forum is "to keep artisans honest"...the forum continues to prove that.

I had promised that I would post closeups of the razor.  Here they are.